Germany proposes driving school reform: app-based theory & simulator training

The German Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) has outlined a broad reform of driving school training aimed at making obtaining a driving licence cheaper, more modern and safer. Central to the proposal is a stronger opening to digital learning: theory lessons could be completed via apps, and parts of required special driving lessons could be done on simulators.

Key elements of the proposal include:

• App-based theory lessons to replace or supplement classroom hours.
• Partial use of driving simulators for some “Sonderfahrten” (special/mandatory drives).
• An overall goal to lower costs, speed up training, and improve road safety through modern teaching methods.

The ministry says the changes would modernize the training pipeline and broaden access to digital learning formats. Advocates argue that simulator hours can provide safe, repeatable training for hazardous scenarios; critics may warn about losing real-world experience or unequal access to required technology.

For more information, see the Federal Ministry of Transport’s site: BMVI (Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport), and coverage of the proposals here: iphone-ticker.de.

The reform is still at the proposal and discussion stage, and details may change as stakeholders — driving schools, instructors, road safety organisations and lawmakers — weigh in. Implementation would require regulatory updates and standards for app-based instruction and simulator accreditation.

Discussion: Do you think app-based theory lessons and simulator hours should count toward a driving licence? Share your thoughts below.